News Summary

Alabama’s Governor Kay Ivey has proclaimed a week in May as National Small Business Week to honor the essential role of small businesses in the state. With 99.4% of all businesses classified as small, they employ nearly half of Alabama’s workforce and significantly contribute to the economy. The week aims to recognize local entrepreneurs and their impact on trade and community development. The U.S. Small Business Administration also announced the recognition of local business leaders for their contributions. This initiative highlights the state’s continued commitment to supporting small businesses.

Alabama’s Governor Declares National Small Business Week

Alabama Governor Kay Ivey has officially proclaimed the week from May 4 to May 11, 2025, as National Small Business Week in the state. This week-long observance is aimed at recognizing the vital role that small businesses play in sustaining Alabama’s economy and fostering job creation.

The proclamation highlights that small businesses are crucial to the state’s economic health, which Governor Ivey describes as the “engine that keeps Alabama moving forward.” Emphasizing their significance, the proclamation notes that these enterprises not only contribute to local economies but also strengthen community ties.

According to the proclamation, approximately 99.4 percent of all businesses in Alabama are classified as small businesses. Collectively, they employ 46.7 percent of the private sector workforce in the state, showcasing their importance as a major employment source. Over the past two and a half decades, there has been nearly a 10 percent increase in employment within small firms.

Impact on Trade and Economy

In addition to employing a significant portion of the workforce, small businesses in Alabama contribute greatly to international trade. Each year, these firms export more than $4.4 billion in goods, highlighting their role in the broader economic landscape of the state.

The proclamation also acknowledges President Trump’s leadership in creating what has been termed a “Golden Age” for small businesses in Alabama. This assertion underscores the belief that supportive policies at the federal level have positively impacted local enterprises.

Recognition of Local Business Leaders

As part of the proclamation, the U.S. Small Business Administration has recognized Kimberly and Larry Lewis, the owners of PROJECTXYZ, INC., as Alabama’s 2025 Small Business Persons of the Year. This recognition is part of a broader initiative to honor small business leaders who have made significant contributions to their communities and the economy.

In total, there are over 449,000 small businesses in Alabama, each playing a unique role in the state’s economic framework. The Alabama Small Business Development Center network was also noted for its efforts in providing business advising and resources throughout the state, supporting the growth of small enterprises.

Community Impact

The proclamation reaffirms Alabama’s commitment to fostering the growth of small businesses and enhancing the state’s economic development. As stated by Rosemary Elebash, the Alabama State Director of the National Federation of Independent Business, small businesses are instrumental in strengthening communities across Alabama, from one end of the state to the other.

The observance of National Small Business Week serves as a reminder of the contributions made by small businesses to the economic vitality and community fabric of Alabama. By recognizing both the achievements and challenges faced by these businesses, the state aims to bolster support for their continued success.

The upcoming National Small Business Week promises to highlight the importance of these enterprises and inspire potential entrepreneurs in Alabama.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• Rocket City Now
• WVTM 13
• Alabama Reporter
• Wikipedia: Small Business
• Google Search: Small Business Week Alabama

Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER

The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.